The Jacksonville Waterways Commission was established in 1984 to study and make recommendations to the City Council with respect to the improvement, development and protection of the St. Johns River and all tidal waters in Duval County.  The Commission is charged to formulate an overall plan for dealing with any problems that exist the St. Johns River and Duval County tidal waters and devise methods of developing future uses of those waterways. 

The Commission serves as the Duval County committee to review rules proposed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission governing speed and operation of motorboats to protect manatees.  And acts as a coordinating agency and specialized advisor for governmental units and for programs and activities affecting the improvement, development and protection of the St. Johns River and all tidal waters in Duval County.

In the course of its work, the Commission conducts research, collects and analyzes data and prepares maps and charts.